SC issues kalikasan on Zambales mining

THE Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a writ of kalikasan against DMCI Mining to protect the environment from exploitation and safeguard the local residents of Zambales province.

During its en banc session, the high court granted the plea of former congressman Angelo Palmones for the issuance of the writ.

The high court has also ordered DMCI to make a return or explanation of the said writ.

The former congressman, a staunch environmentalist, filed a case on behalf of the complaining citizens of Zambales where DMCI has mining operations.

“We would like for the Supreme Court to issue a restraining order against DMCI Mining operations in the area and look into the report that the mining company has actually levelled a mountain so that they can create a foreshore for the port to be used in their mining operations” Palmones said.

Impleaded in the petition are the Department of Natural Resources and the Philippine Ports Authority.

Agham party-list believes that the two agencies should be part of the collective efforts to protect the environment from abuse disguised as industrial development.

Palmones explained that the mining industry will be in the center of attention in the coming new year because President Aquino is pushing for the immediate implementation of a new mining act anchored on Executive Order 79.

Agham asked the SC to intervene on behalf of the petitioners until a balanced and healthy ecology is restored in Zambales and that the environmental properties of the province is protected, preserved and immediately rehabilitated.

1 Comment

This is one example how DENR and local government looks into business ventures of company involve in natural resources exploration and mining and also shows that there is no such thing as responsible miner.